In the previous blog, we introduced the business transformation model VAPORS. In the next blog posts, we will explain each stage in more detail. As a reminder, the VAPORS Model consists of 6 stages:
– Value
– Assign
– Progress
– Output
– Results
– Supervision

‘Value’ is the first stage of the business transformation model and can be described by Focus (are we doing the right thing). It is the translation of strategic initiatives into measurable values to be delivered, and answers the question of Why? Value activities are all about getting commitment of leadership and stakeholders behind the Value. This needs to be built, continuously monitored, maintained and lived by the persons involved (starting at the top).

Strategy should always be the starting point for any business transformation initiative within an organisation. Strategy defines the long-term goals of an organisation, and any new initiative should be measured alongside this strategy test. Only if the initiative is in line with the strategic direction and the right commitment has been established, the process can continue.

Once the strategy check has been performed, you need to define what value this business transformation initiative will bring in the short and long run (hence the name ‘Value’ for this stage). What benefits will be realised? Will costs decrease? Will the quality of our production process increase? Can throughput times decrease? And what should we stop doing? Benefits should be measurable, so each benefit should be SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely).

Different blueprints can be used, for example VSOM (Vision, Strategy, Objectives & Measures) to collect and document the strategy and how it can be made SMART. Furthermore, a Strategy Map as well as a Value Stream Map do support this process of documenting.

Our toolkit consists of several tools to support this stage, many well know and documented. Examples of tools to be used:
– Balanced Scorecard (BSC)
– Business Model Canvas
– Porter’s Five Forces
– PESTLE Analysis
– ….and many more
With all the tools to our disposal and our best practices that we’ve adopted over the years, we make sure every business transformation initiative starts where it needs to start: with the strategy. Once connected to strategy, we are certain that the initiative supports achieving the company’s long-term goals.

‘Value’ is the first stage of our business transformation model and connects a business transformation initiative to strategy and commitment. The following stage is ‘Assign’, the subject of our next blog.